Emiko Ishii
ABOUT EMIKO ISHII
Actress • Action Performer • Creative Consultant • Founder of Epika Global LLC/Epika Dance
Emiko Jane Ishii is a British-born Japanese actress and seasoned action performer whose career is defined by determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of dreams. From powerful lead roles to high-impact stunt work on global productions, she has proven that no dream is too big—and that every challenge is simply another chance to rise stronger. Her credits span film, television, and theatre, including Yakuza Girl, the acclaimed stage drama The Mistake, Marvel’s Secret Invasion, Netflix’s The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself, and stunt doubling in Apartment 7A. Known for her versatility, Emiko brings emotional depth and physical precision to every role, telling stories that connect across cultures.
A lifelong martial artist trained in Karate, Eskrima, and weaponry, Emiko blends technical mastery with performance artistry. Her action expertise has shaped her work not only on screen but also as a mentor to aspiring performers—showing them that with discipline, passion, and courage, anything is possible. As a choreographer and movement director, she has brought visions to life for Anne-Marie on Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, for Nissan Formula E’s dynamic launch, and for major stages including the 2012 London Olympics Opening Ceremony, Anand Film & TV Awards and the Asian Achievers Awards.
Through Epika Global, Emiko expands her mission beyond entertainment. The platform unites dance, martial arts, empowerment coaching, self-defense training, and international dance workshops—empowering participants to develop confidence, resilience, cultural appreciation, and artistic skill. Her Warrior Mindset coaching transforms dancers, actors, creative leaders, and individuals from all walks of life, helping them push past fear, reclaim their strength, and rise after every setback. Her work has inspired communities across the UK, US, Japan, and India, building creative leadership and self-belief worldwide.
As the founder of Epika Dance, an internationally award-winning Bollywood fusion company now in its 15th year, Emiko has built a unique creative force specializing in Indian, Western, Japanese, and martial arts fusion. Epika trains dancers not only in diverse styles, but also in the skills to perform, manage, instruct, and lead as artistic visionaries. The company’s dynamic approach ensures its dancers stand out—equipped with both technical versatility and the mindset to thrive in the global entertainment industry while providing mentorship, global performance opportunities, and teaching qualifications.
With a decade of experience delivering movement and dance intervention in SEN schools, Emiko is deeply committed to inclusivity and education. She believes movement is a universal language—one that can unite, empower, and uplift communities.
As a second-generation British-born Japanese artist, Emiko champions representation for East Asian performers in a field that often overlooks diverse voices. She honours her heritage through classical Japanese dance while reimagining it for modern audiences, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist powerfully on stage and screen.
With over 23 years of experience, Emiko brings unmatched skill, creativity, and leadership to every project she touches. Whether captivating audiences on set, choreographing unforgettable performances, or guiding clients through transformative coaching, she stands as living proof that dreams are worth fighting for.
Her message is clear: no dream is too big, no fall too hard—if you rise, fight, and believe, anything is possible.
AWARDS
-
World Creative Hero Distinction Award 2024
-
GTC 100 Successful Women in Business Award 2024 US
-
Global Visionaries Community Champion Award 2024 US
-
WAGES Award Outstanding Contribution to Arts & Dance
-
LLF Excellence in Field of Acting & Dance
-
Winner 2022 Mervyn Stutter Spirit of the Fringe Award “The Mistake”
-
Business Enterprise Award Winner 2023
-
LOANI Global Award for Contribution in the Arts & Dance 2022
-
WAW Honorary Award 2019
-
Professional Practice Award The Met Film School London
-
LOANI Global Japan Chairperson
-
Finalist SHE AWARDS UK 2025 | WARRIOR CATEGORY
-
Nominated ONE Dance UK Awards 2021
Training & Qualifications
-
JKA Karate - Shodan Black Belt
-
Certified Self Defense Instructor - Soul Punch
-
Eskrima FMA Martial Arts UK/Doce Pares LA- Brown belt 1
-
British Action Academy - Phase 1-4
-
Tactical Black - Firearms
-
DarkRoc Firearms Training
-
BareArms Level 1
-
Motion Capture - Target 3D, Mocap Vaults CQB1 & CQB2 Training
-
Military Training - ROTC, ULOTC
-
YMCA Level 2 Fitness Qualification
-
EMDUK - Certified Dance Fitness Instructor
-
Licentiate Qualification in Bollywood Dance
-
ISTD Ballet Grades 1-6
-
ISTD Kathak Grades 1-6
-
Premier Global PT Course